James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

On Deputy Lawless's question, we are very much aware of that situation. Amending legislation will be brought forward this year to address it.

In response to Deputy Ward's question, some of the common themes that emerged from the submissions included consideration of a strategy developed specifically for young adults aged 18 to 24 who offend, grounded in evidence as to what works to promote and support desistance from offending behaviour among that age group; incorporating restorative justice and its collaborative and proactive solutions; training within the diversion programmes for 18- to 24-year-olds; and wraparound services ensuring a referral pathway for addiction services, employment, training, mental health services, local housing authority services and practical family interventions which support improved family functioning and relationships. I agree with the Deputy that supports in the local community where the young person is benefits both the young person and the community itself. I do not have an answer specifically in respect of publication of the work to date but I will certainly get one for the Deputy.

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